2025 Mercedes-AMG E53 Review – The Goldilocks AMG
When Mercedes-AMG unveiled the C63 plug-in hybrid, it was met with an awkward silence, followed by the distant sound of disapproval from fans and critics alike (we actually liked it!). A four-cylinder hybrid replacing the iconic V8? That was a hard pill to swallow, and it didn’t go down well. But Mercedes isn’t the sort […]
A Fine Selection – Skoda Kodiaq Selection TDI Review
The first-generation Skoda Kodiaq was certainly a strong seller for the Czech arm of the Volkswagen Group. Having been the recipient of numerous accolades from the specialist global motoring press, the current second generation Kodiaq has a tough act to follow. Is this follow up able to continue the vibe of the first album while […]
Big name, bigger ute – GWM Cannon Alpha Ultra HEV review
The GWM Canon Alpha Ultra HEV is essentially a full-size statement of intent from Great Wall Motors. With the Chinese brand gunning for a slice of the lucrative lifestyle and work-ready ute pie, the Canon Alpha Ultra lands with a bold presence, hybrid credentials, and a spec sheet that reads like a luxury SUV brochure. […]
Doing more, with less – Tesla Model Y Review
I used to joke with my friends that you could not kick a rock in Auckland without it hitting 4 first-get Model 3s, they were just everywhere. And while the updated Model 3 saw a mere fraction of that success, the new, revised Model Y has been a more frequent sight, to the point that […]
Smooth Operator – BYD Sealion 7 Performance Review
It’s not often that a car manages to fly under the radar while also being one of the most complete offerings in its segment, but today you join me for a review of one that does just that. You’d be forgiven for walking right past the BYD Sealion 7 Performance without noticing it’s the fast […]
GWM Cannon Lux Review – Rugged Value With Room to Refine
GWM’s Cannon ute has made waves in the New Zealand market with its aggressive pricing and big-spec energy, and the base model proves you don’t necessarily need to spend top dollar to get a feature-rich workhorse. This truck might not nail every aspect of premium ute life, but for those on a tighter budget looking […]
Wagons Roll! – BMW M3 Competition Touring Review
Wagons are cooler than SUVs. They just are. Before the sports SUV cemented itself as the go anywhere, anytime on any track tool they are today, the station wagon, shooting brake or estate car was the most obvious choice for transporting your nearest and dearest around in comfort in addition to carrying a little more […]
2025 Suzuki Fronx – first drive NZ
Funky Name, Functional Flair The name might raise eyebrows ‘Fronx?’ but Suzuki’s new compact crossover wears its badge with pride. Stylish, efficient, and well-equipped, the Fronx is the Japanese brand’s latest contender in the bustling small SUV market. Built in India and designed in Japan, it’s a bold step into a new segment for Suzuki […]
Mini Cooper S Convertible Review – The Joy of Driving, Amplified
There are few cars on sale today that evoke as much pure driving joy as the Mini, and fewer still that double down on that emotional appeal with a folding roof. The new Mini Cooper S Convertible, in Favoured trim, does just that. It combines everyday usability with go-kart handling, stylish flair, and a well-judged […]
There are levels to this – RAM 1500 Limited Review
Pickup trucks (okay, Utes) can sometimes be a thing of compromise: rugged or refined, capable or comfortable. But the RAM 1500 Limited poses the question “why not both?” – and then some more while at it. By really pushing the envelope on what utes can be – at least for our market – it really shows […]